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The Academic Platform for Language in University Settings (APLUS) is a self-paced online platform that incorporates aspects of self-regulated learning (planning, monitoring, reflection on learning) to support student’s development of communication skills (oral and written) in academic settings while deepening their knowledge and practice of academic integrity.

Academic Skills Hub (ASH)

A virtual library designed to enhance your academic skills, in ASH you’ll find Resource Pages about academic writing and reading, academic English, communication skills, and learning strategies. Dive into areas like academic article reading, literature reviews, reflective writing, citations, paragraph construction, integrating research into your work, and much more.

The OISE Student Success Centre (OSSC) and the OISE Library co-present this workshop with a panel of OISE Staff, Students and Librarians focusing on how to prevent plagiarism through various strategies and citation management tools.

APA Citation: Overview, Guidance and Resources (PDF)

Presentation slides by OISE Library that cover quick steps for APA citation, using a citation management tool, such as RefWorks, and important resources for reference and for continuing your practice and learning. (January 2021)

PDF handouts on effective reading; SMART goals; online learning; online presentations; managing distracting thoughts; reaching out to instructors; mindfulness through the Medicine Wheel; Weekly schedule template; Seven Grandfathers in Academic Integrity and more.

This online resource includes modules on understanding how GenAI functions and potential issues to consider, evaluating when to use GenAI and how to discern the quality of the content output, and using GenAI for various tasks in your academic work.

The Graduate Centre for Academic Communication (GCAC) provides all UofT/OISE graduate students with advanced training in academic writing and speaking. They offer many workshops, courses, events and 1-on-1 appointments. You may also access their

Indigenous Education Network (IEN) - Writing Support

The IEN coordinates sessions with writing experts and coaches to help Indigenous, Black-Indigenous and Black students with their academic writing. This includes group writing workshops, individual coaching, and copyediting services.

Created by OISE Staff and Faculty, this site offers video tutorials on Quercus and Pepper, tips for success in online learning, links for external resources and FAQs from students about online learning technologies, accessibility, and support.  

This online resources hub offers several tips, PDF handouts, videos, and external links on academic writing, English Language Learner resources, study skills, math resources and academic integrity.

An online peer-generated resource created by members of the PhD Caring and Sharing Collective, a group of research stream students in Curriculum, Teaching & Learning (CTL) at OISE.  Subjects include: financing, coursework, comps, proposals, ethics, data collection and analysis, dissertation, defence, and finding a job post PhD.

Organized by the UTSC Centre for Teaching and Learning this site offers slide presentations, PDF handouts and several tips for navigating the academic writing process, different types of assignments, academic reading, English grammar, and using and citing resources.

A guide, by professor emeritus Anne Jordan Ph.D., for doctoral students at various stages of their doctoral theses and dissertations: Designing their thesis proposals, developing their research question(s), beginning their data collection, or writing their findings.

The advice files on this site answer the kinds of questions that University of Toronto students ask about their written assignments. Most were created by writing instructors at U of T—people who are familiar with U of T expectations. 

A Resource Guide for Graduate Students at the 91ֱ�� 

This guide is intended to support graduate students in respectfully and ethically engaging with Indigenous knowledges, methodologies, and sources in their academic research and writing. It includes key readings, institutional guidelines, ethical protocols, and local supports to help scholars navigate the complexities and responsibilities of working with Indigenous knowledges in academic settings. Please remember to always bring care and compassion forward – resources are a starting point - relationship building and learning should follow.

Foundational Frameworks and Ethical Protocols

This chapter outlines federal ethics requirements for research involving Indigenous peoples in Canada. It emphasizes principles of respect, reciprocity, and collaboration, including community engagement, cultural protocols, and the recognition of Indigenous knowledge systems.

Developed by the First Nations Information Governance Centre (FNIGC), OCAP® establishes guidelines for how First Nations data should be collected, used, and shared. It is essential for any researcher engaging in data collection, community-based work, or analysis involving First Nations communities. 

This early but still influential guide provides researchers with ethical considerations and practical advice for engaging Indigenous communities in research. It includes sections on informed consent, ownership of knowledge, and community review of findings. 

This document outlines Inuit research priorities, calling for Inuit-led research that reflects Inuit values and knowledge systems. It is especially useful for those conducting work in northern contexts or with Inuit communities.

Texts on Indigenous Methodologies and Knowledge Systems

Linda Tuhiwai Smith – Decolonizing Methodologies: Research and Indigenous Peoples

This foundational text critiques Western research paradigms and advocates for decolonial and Indigenous-led approaches to knowledge creation. It offers practical guidance on designing research projects that prioritize Indigenous perspectives and relational accountability.

Shawn Wilson – Research is Ceremony: Indigenous Research Methods

Wilson introduces Indigenous research as a relational process grounded in ceremony, storytelling, and accountability. This book is particularly helpful for students seeking to shift from extractive models of research toward relational knowledge practices.

Jo-ann Archibald (Q’um Q’um Xiiem) – Indigenous Storywork: Educating the Heart, Mind, Body, and Spirit

This work outlines storywork as a methodology, emphasizing the role of oral traditions and Indigenous pedagogies in knowledge transmission. Archibald provides examples from her research with Elders, educators, and communities.

Eds. Devon A. Mihesuah & Angela Cavender Wilson – Indigenizing the Academy: Transforming Scholarship and Empowering Communities

A collection of essays from Indigenous scholars reflecting on the challenges and strategies of integrating Indigenous perspectives within academic institutions.

Margaret Kovach – Indigenous Methodologies: Characteristics, Conversations, and Contexts

This book provides an overview of Indigenous methodologies in qualitative research, with a focus on Canadian Indigenous contexts. Kovach emphasizes conversational methods and storytelling as central to knowledge production.

Citation, Attribution, and Academic Writing Practices

This guide offers practical recommendations for citing Elders, oral teachings, community knowledge, and other forms of Indigenous knowledge that may not be published in traditional academic formats. It includes examples for APA, MLA, and Chicago style citations.

Developed by Simon Fraser University, this guide provides examples for appropriately citing oral traditions, community knowledge, and teachings in written work.

Toronto-Based Supports and Community Resources

Indigenous Education Network (IEN), OISE - University of Toronto

The Indigenous Education Network (IEN) offers different programming specifically for Indigenous, Black-Indigenous and Black students. The IEN also offers programming open to anyone with an interest in anti-colonial and Indigenous education.

First Nations House offers culturally supportive services for Indigenous students and serves as a bridge between Indigenous communities and the university. Elders, knowledge keepers, and staff may offer guidance for students seeking to understand Indigenous knowledge systems and practices.

An interdisciplinary academic centre offering courses, programming, and research opportunities focused on Indigenous cultures, histories, and contemporary issues. Their events and speaker series offer insight into Indigenous research and community perspectives.

An Indigenous-led research and education centre focused on policy, self-determination, and social transformation. Their publications, briefs, and reports are essential reading for anyone researching Indigenous governance, land rights, and justice in Canada.

A community cultural centre offering educational and cultural programming, workshops, and social services. NCCT may be a helpful point of connection for students wanting to learn from Indigenous community experiences in urban settings. It’s also down the street from OISE located at 16 Spadina Rd.

This curated resource highlights Indigenous authors, scholarship, and media across disciplines. It supports students and researchers seeking to locate Indigenous-authored material and build decolonized bibliographies.

Journals and Storytelling Platforms

An Indigenous youth-led magazine centering Indigenous voices in storytelling, art, and resistance. It is a valuable source of community-authored knowledge, cultural commentary, and creative expression.

A peer-reviewed academic journal that explores the intersections of decolonization, Indigenous resurgence, and education.

A podcast hosted by Indigenous scholars that engages with Indigenous literature and oral traditions. This is an accessible way to learn about Indigenous thought in conversation.

and

A television programming network with an online presence that shares Indigenous stories and histories. There is an online subscription to LUMI which houses their TV, Film, Documentaries and other programming such as youth and children’s shows. 

Muskrat Magazine is an Indigenous-led arts and culture publication based in Toronto that highlights contemporary Indigenous voices through storytelling, photography, poetry, film, and critical commentary. Founded by Indigenous artists and writers, the magazine is committed to the reclamation and celebration of Indigenous knowledge systems, languages, and worldviews.

Suggested Approaches for Students

Students who wish to incorporate Indigenous knowledge into their academic work are encouraged to:

• Begin with self-location: Understand and articulate your own positionality and who you are, where you come from. You can then begin to understand this in relation to the communities, knowledge systems, and histories you are engaging with.
• Practice relational accountability: Build relationships with communities, knowledge holders, and sources of Indigenous knowledge through a commitment to reciprocity and respect.
• Prioritize Indigenous voices: Cite Indigenous authors, include oral histories where appropriate, and avoid substituting secondary interpretations for firsthand knowledge.
• Engage with community protocols: Recognize that some knowledge is sacred, restricted, or context-specific and may require permissions to share or cite and respect when knowledge is not yours to be shared.
• Consult institutional supports: Reach out to Indigenous centres, librarians, and instructors who are experienced in supporting Indigenous scholarship.
• This is not an exhaustive list – please use these as a guide or starting point.

Academic Writing Group (AWG)

Academic Writing Groups during Fall and Winter terms to help you connect with your peers and to make the academic writing process less stressful and more productive. Each group will meet ten times (virtually and in person). These writing groups are intended to provide academic writing support for OISE students for whom English is not their first language.

The CIE offers a range of programs and services to support international students, as well as global learning opportunities for all students. Our team is here to help ensure you have a smooth transition and have the resources you need to succeed at UofT.

Grad Step Up is an extended orientation program designed to support your transition to U of T as an incoming international graduate student by connecting you to key information, resources, and communities on campus.

iSSD is a digital tool for OISE students and is intended for all students who wish to learn more about academic integrity practice at the University of Toronto. The Academic Integrity Module contains five case-based topics structured around typical scenarios that students face in their coursework. The module is self-access and contains video, knowledge quizzes, and self-reflective activities. Resources related to academic integrity practice are included for students who wish to learn more. Users are also encouraged to participate in OISE research on the effectiveness of the module by completing a short student survey and providing their consent. However, participation in the research project is not required to access the module.

To access iSSD and assess your knowledge of academic integrity practice, .

The ebook will help students in the development of appropriate academic, learning, and study skills, and the ability to find and make use of relevant resources of support and community. The content of this document was created by staff at the University of Toronto with expertise in academic resourcefulness, learning strategy development, and the international student experience. It also includes audio and video content from other international students currently studying in Ontario who offer insights from their own experiences.

This initiative offers a fun and friendly approach to exploring university life across six key categories: Wellbeing, Social, Explore, Academic, English, and Career. By participating in curated activities, you can accumulate stamps, progressing through levels from Day Tripper to Jet-Setter. Each level achieved presents an opportunity to win prizes!

The mission of the Black Research Network is to promote Black excellence at the University of Toronto and enhance the research capacity of Black scholars within the university and on the world stage. The BRN develops and supports platforms and collaborations that increase visibility for U of T Black scholars’ research accomplishments; sustain a cross-divisional, interdisciplinary, network of Black scholars; facilitate robust research engagements across the University of Toronto and internationally.

Education Commons

At Education Commons, students can find a range of tips, links, guides and tools for leveraging technology toward effective learning and online collaboration. Education Commons also offers support, tutorials and training for research-stream students in navigating the data analysis software REDCap.  

This guide was prepared by the OISE Library for students conducting graduate research in education, covering both quantitative and qualitative research. It covers each phase of the research journey from starting a research project to gathering your data and delivering your findings.

The OISE library has a wealth of research and reference supports, from , , on resource search strategies and databases, , and . Find more at the  and the .

Research Centres

OISE’s research centres provide vibrant opportunities to connect and explore interests and synergies, welcoming students, faculty members and staff to engage in a variety of activities and events. Connect with other students and faculty doing similar work in your areas of research interest, including the Indigenous Educational Research Centre! 

Our team assists in navigating disability-related barriers to your academic success at U of T for your on-going or temporary disability. We provide services and supports for learning, problem solving and inclusion.

The Anti-Racism and Cultural Diversity Office (ARCDO) within the Division of People Strategy, Equity & Culture, provides services to support University members in their efforts to foster environments that are intentionally racially diverse and inclusive through the advancement of equitable practices, education and training and the provision of complaints resolution supports on matters of race, faith and intersecting identities as guided by the Ontario Human Rights Commission.

The Assignment Planner is a tool that helps you schedule your course assignments day by day, while also offering helpful tips, resources and links for each aspect of your assignment. Calculate your schedule, select from “Type of Assignment” - including annotated bibliographies, literature review, reflective essay and others – and enjoy this excellent planning and support tool.

We support students and recent graduates as they build their future in our changing world. We help students explore what they can do with their degree, discover job opportunities and further education.

Student Life at U of T can help graduate students navigate academic challenges through a series of  and resources. You can improve your academic skills using their PDF handouts, participate in a workshop, or join a graduate productivity or writing group. Workshops offered include time management; stress management; project management; write fright; stopping procrastination; work & play for grads; how identity impacts learning; how to navigate academics as a racialized student; how feeling like an imposter impacts learning; mindful reading; journaling for academic well-being, and more.

Our mandate is to support successful mentorship and supervisory relationships. We have created a person-centred, solution-oriented approach to graduate mentorship and supervision support. You can call or email us – personally – for confidential support regarding your mentorship or supervisory relationship. No issue is too small. We’re here for you.

MyGPD is an initiative of the School of Graduate Studies Centre for Graduate Professional Development (CGPD) designed to help all graduate students prepare for their future by advancing the development of important transferable skills and competencies. MyGPD will help you communicate better, work effectively in teams and as leaders, strengthen your personal efficacy, gain teaching skills, develop research skills, learn how to share information with a wide variety of audiences, and more!

We provide culturally relevant services to Indigenous students to support academic success, personal growth and leadership development. We offer learning opportunities for all students to engage with Indigenous communities at U of T and beyond.

We provide a range of health services for your physical and mental health, wellness programs and information to help support you in achieving your personal and academic goals.

Learning Well for Grads is a four-week program for research-stream students focused on academic resilience, goal setting, motivation, time management and productivity.

Teacher Employment Handbook

This handbook has been developed to aid in your search for a teaching position. It outlines key steps in the process, the resources that will assist you and the available services at OISE and the Career Centre that will support you.

Workshops being offered by several units at the three University of Toronto campuses. Workshops range from mindful reading and publishing skills to technology-related workshops such as 3D design or introduction to podcasting. Through this page you can also find pre-recorded and self-paced modules such as Introduction to R, Introduction to NVivo, Data Visualization, and more.